Tensions persist in Niger following the coup d'état that toppled President Mohamed Bazoum in July. While the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) is considering military intervention to restore constitutional order, neighbour and ally Mali has clearly expressed its opposition to such an initiative.
At the United Nations (UN) General Assembly in New York on 23 September, Abdoulaye Diop, representative of the Malian junta, declared: "Mali remains strongly opposed to any military intervention by ECOWAS. Any military intervention in Niger constitutes a direct threat to the peace and security of Mali, but also of the region, and will necessarily have serious consequences. We will not stand idly by.
Mali recently signed a defensive agreement with Niger and Burkina Faso, providing for mutual assistance in the event of an attack on the sovereignty and territorial integrity of these three military-led countries.
Abdoulaye Diop also made a "special mention" of Russia for its bilateral and multilateral commitment, breaking its alliance with France and its partners in the fight against jihadism. This decision has led to the withdrawal of the UN peacekeeping mission (MINUSMA) from Mali, scheduled for the end of the year.
The situation in Mali is complex, with jihadist, security, humanitarian and political challenges, particularly in the north of the country where hostilities have resumed. Despite these challenges, the Malian government assures us that it is determined to exercise its sovereignty over the whole of its territory after the departure of MINUSMA.
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